What were the consequences of Watergate
1. Resignation of President Richard Nixon: The Watergate scandal led to the resignation of President Nixon on August 9, 1974, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office.
2. Criminal charges and convictions: Several members of Nixon's administration, including his top aides, were charged and convicted of crimes related to the Watergate scandal, including obstruction of justice, perjury, and conspiracy.
3. Public distrust in government: The Watergate scandal eroded public trust in the government and led to increased skepticism about the integrity of elected officials.
4. Strengthening of the media: The reporting of the Watergate scandal by journalists, notably Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward of The Washington Post, led to a greater emphasis on investigative journalism and increased scrutiny of government actions.
5. Reform of campaign finance laws: The scandal prompted Congress to pass the Federal Election Campaign Act Amendments of 1974, which established new requirements for disclosure of campaign contributions and expenditures.
6. Congressional oversight and checks on executive power: The Watergate scandal highlighted the importance of congressional oversight of the executive branch and led to increased scrutiny of presidential powers.
7. Impact on future presidencies: The Watergate scandal set a precedent for holding presidents accountable for their actions and has influenced public and political perceptions of presidential behavior in the years since.